La Vaca Margarita Bar
1160 W 18th St, Chicago
(312) 829-1147
Recent Reviews
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La Vaca Margarita Bar is the spot if you're lookin' for good food and drinks in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. The margaritas here are legit—super refreshing and hit the spot every time. I ordered the tacos al pastor and the guac, and both were bomb. The tacos were packed with flavor, and that smoky grilled pork was on point. The patio is a vibe, especially when the weather's nice, and it’s perfect for a hangout with friends. I spent about $40, which included a drink, the tacos, and the guacamole, and it was definitely worth it. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m in the area!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Taco Tuesday
Great food like always! #2 came real quick during my yoga session the next day. I like spicy food! 😋🥑
Online the hours they open at 11 AM on Saturday I walked in at 1 PM because who doesn’t want some margaritas after brunch?? . Lights on, the doors were unlocked. I literally walked in there and sat down then a workers came out and said they were closed 😐😐
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Over charged my card. WIter wasn't attentive to our table. Added extra unexplained charged to the bill
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Taco Tuesday
More club/bar vibes in a sit down restaurant. Loud but lively.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 5
The staff is rude and snarky, not a welcoming vibe at all. The food was mid for the price range, I will not be coming back.
Yesterday night me & my friend came to eat & have a drink after we sat down at the bar I noticed a roach coming out from behind the bar 🤮 it was a pretty disgusting moment. Literally threw up outside the restaurant.what was meant to be a good time for us definitely went wrong .
After yesterday incident I called today around 7:50 pm because they said that when a manager or supervisor would be in. So I was denied a refund which it’s okay but I was telling this person how the bartender who killed the roach didn’t even wipe down the counter nor washed his hands even though he killed it with a napkin. So the person over the phones goes on & asks me “ oh did he touch it with his bare hands “ ?? Like what? So your telling me that if I go to the washroom clean my Ass it’s okay not to wash my hands because I didn’t touch my ass with my bare hands ? Lmao this place and staff are a total joke . Definitely don’t recommend to anyone .
PSA they been had roaches for years don’t order food. Drinks r alright and the place can be a vibe (sometimes) way out your options before going!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 1
Service: 1
They have mice running around in the corner by the bar. I literally watched them play around while taking a call. So gross!!!!
Don’t come here they have roaches 🪳 they going viral for this.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Restaurantji Recommends
Host/Managers/Server who ever is answering the phone are unprofessional, they take the phone off the line if you call in the evenings. Answering the phone for a to go food order is bare minimum stuff. I know it’s loud but don’t block callers who make +$100 dollar orders every time they call... Besides that, place is chill inside. Music is good, Food is great, drinks are decent.
Don’t order the steak, even tho it’s over $5 per taco they skimp out on the meat. Extremely disappointing and I’ve already had to take my business elsewhere. The VEGAN spot across the street is FANTASTIC. The Al pastor cauliflower tacos are loaded.
Kid-friendliness: Don’t bring the kids 💅💅💅
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 4
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Spicy Mango Margarita w Tajin Rim, Chicharron Carnitas
THIS PLACE HAS COCKROACHES!! I’m surprised this place is still open, second time in 2 years that someone has recorded a video of a roach just crawling on their table! DISGUSTING.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
One of my favorite places in Pilsen. My go-to spot when entertaining friends and family for their first visit to Pilsen.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fries, Spicy Mango Margarita w Tajin Rim, Carne Asada
Great food and great for watching Sports games!
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 4
Service: 3
Recommended dishes: Fries, Mango
If you’re looking for a spot where incredible tacos meet a chill, upbeat atmosphere, La Vaca is the place to be. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a lively, colorful vibe, a mix of traditional Mexican flair and modern touches. The music was on point, the energy buzzing, and the place felt vibrant yet relaxed. It’s the kind of spot that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day or kicking off a fun night out.
But what really sealed the deal was the food. I ordered three tacos, and each one delivered flavors that were out of this world. The Big Boss taco was the first to hit the table, and it was a flavor explosion. The breaded shrimp was crispy and juicy, and the combination of bacon, creamy avocado, crunchy cole-slaw, and smoky chipotle mayo tied everything together beautifully. Every bite had a mix of textures and a burst of rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.
The second taco, a classic Al Pastor, didn’t disappoint either. The marinated pork was tender, perfectly charred, and packed with that signature sweetness and spice. A squeeze of lime and a sprinkle of cilantro elevated the flavors even more, making each bite simple yet incredibly satisfying.
But the absolute highlight was the Lomito taco. This one was pure bliss. The rib eye was tender, melt-in-your-mouth soft, and paired perfectly with the creamy guacamole and the grilled panela cheese. The cheese added a subtle smoky note, while the cilantro brought a fresh, herbaceous pop. The balance of flavors and textures made this taco unforgettable — rich, savory, and perfectly executed.
La Vaca truly knows how to deliver when it comes to tacos, and their attention to detail with flavors and ingredients is top-notch. The vibes, the food, and the service all made this an experience I can’t wait to repeat. If you’re a taco lover, this is a must-visit spot.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tequila Selection, Vegan Taco, Torta, Vegan, Spicy Mango, Tacos Carne Asada, Fries, Enchiladas, Mango, Spicy Mango Margarita w Tajin Rim, Enchiladas Verdes, Avocado, Boss Tacos, Sauce, Harrison Park Elote, Carne Asada, Taco Tuesday, Big Boss Taco, Chicharron Carnitas
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